Security Deposit Lawyer in San Diego

California Civil Code section 1950.5 sets strict rules for security deposits. After a tenant moves out, the landlord has 21 days to return the deposit or send an itemized statement of deductions, with receipts or estimates for the work. Recent changes also require photos documenting the unit’s condition and limit how large most deposits can be.

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A landlord who keeps a deposit in bad faith can owe the tenant up to twice the deposit amount in addition to what was wrongly withheld.

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For Tenants

If you received no statement, a late statement, or charges for normal wear and tear, you may be owed the full deposit and more. Many deposit cases are resolved with a demand letter. Others go to small claims or superior court, depending on the amount.

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For Landlords

A well-documented itemization is the best defense. Germani Law helps landlords prepare compliant itemizations and defends deposit claims.